A three year a funding package has been announced for the ISPS
HANDA Women's Scottish Open, securing the tournament's future and
supporting its continued growth.
The Scottish Government's £4.5 million commitment will enhance
the tournament's visibility, fan experience and global reach,
cementing its status in the women's professional golf calendar.
The tournament's positioning in the week before the AIG Women's
Open attracts many of the world's leading players and a growing
audience, with a record 11,000 spectators attending last year.
It is the second golf funding announcement from the Scottish
Government in less than a week, following further support for the
Genisis Scottish Open, and underlines the sport's importance to
Scotland's economy and international profile.
Business Minister said:
“The Women's Scottish Open is a world-class event that showcases
our country to a global audience.
“This investment will help ensure the tournament continues to
grow in stature while delivering strong economic and tourism
benefits for Scotland.
“It is also an important platform for women's sport, helping to
inspire participation and demonstrate Scotland's commitment to
equality and inclusion on the world stage.”
Scotland's top-ranked female golfer Gemma Dryburgh, who expects
to compete in this year's event at Dundonald Links in Ayrshire,
said:
“This is hugely positive news for women's sport in general and
Scottish golf in particular. The event goes from strength to
strength and I'm looking forward to being back at Dundonald this
July.”
The funding will be administered by VisitScotland. Director of
Industry and Events at VisitScotland, , said:
“The Women's Scottish Open attracts thousands of visitors each
year, playing a key role in growing Scotland's visitor economy
and raising the country's international profile, while also
delivering meaningful social and environmental benefits.
“Our long-standing support for the event reflects our commitment
to showcasing Scotland as the perfect stage for events, through a
diverse portfolio of sporting and cultural experiences.”
Background
The 2026 ISPS HANDA Women's Scottish Open takes place from 23 to
26 July. The tournament is co-sanctioned by the LPGA Tour and the
Ladies European Tour.
On 18 March the Scottish Government announced a package totalling
£6.3 million to continue
development of the Genesis Scottish Open, covering the DP
World Tour event up to 2028.
The tournaments are part of a series of major sporting events
being supported by the Scottish Government. Others include the
Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the 2027 Tour de France Grand
Depart, UEFA EURO 2028 and the World Rally Championship.
